LIUNA AA Caucus board member and New York LIUNA Local 79 executive board member Brother Barrie Smith’s tireless work in his community, educating and organizing, has not gone unnoticed. Brother Smith has received several honors for his dedicated work in the community in the past few months. In March 2022, Brother Smith and Brother Anthony Williamson, caucus member, received the Labor Press Community Service Award during the New York Building Trades conference in Hallandale Beach Florida. The award recognized their significant roles in community involvement and organizing activities for LIUNA Local 79.
In April 2022, Brother Smith received recognition from Lebanon High School for his work educating students on the opportunities and requirements needed to become a skilled union member. He worked with Local 79 members, the apprenticeship coordinator and LECET Fund staff on this project.
During Bronx Week in May 2022, Brother Smith was honored for his commitment to community involvement by Bronx Borough President, Vanessa Gibson, at the Bronx Labor Luncheon. LIUNA AA Caucus members realize that as union percentages decrease, now more than ever, we need the support of our members and their communities. Community activism is Labor and community in solidarity using direct action to achieve working class goals that benefit both parties.